Cascade Springs Nature Preserve: Atlanta's Natural and Historical Retreat

Discover a hidden gem in Atlanta: a nature preserve with a cascading waterfall, Civil War history, and tranquil escape from the city.

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Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Escape the city bustle at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, a 135-acre urban oasis in southwest Atlanta. Discover a beautiful waterfall, historic springhouse, Civil War earthworks, and tranquil trails winding through lush woodlands [3, 4]. It's a perfect spot for a refreshing nature walk and a glimpse into Atlanta's past [3].

A brief summary to Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

2852 Cascade Rd, Atlanta, Cascade Heights, Georgia, 30311, US
+1404-546-6744
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Monday 8 am-11 pm
Tuesday 8 am-11 pm
Wednesday 8 am-11 pm
Thursday 8 am-11 pm
Friday 8 am-11 pm
Saturday 8 am-11 pm
Sunday 8 am-11 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and milder temperatures, especially during warmer months [3].
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially slippery rocks near the creek and waterfall [4].
Bring water and snacks, as there are no restrooms on site [4, 5, 10].
Be mindful of the park's gate hours, as they may differ from the trail hours [3].

Getting There

Public Transport

The most convenient way to reach Cascade Springs Nature Preserve via public transport is by using MARTA bus route 71 [4]. From the West End Station, board the 71 bus towards Cascade Road [4]. The bus stops directly at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve [4]. A single ride fare is $2.50 [4, 7, 8, 12, 15, 16]. You may need to purchase a Breeze card for $2 to ride MARTA [8, 12, 15]. Check the MARTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules [4].
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taking a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) is a convenient option [4]. Simply provide the driver with the address: 2852 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30311 [4, 5]. From downtown Atlanta, a ride typically costs between $20-$30, depending on traffic and surge pricing [4]. The drop-off point is directly at the preserve entrance [4].
Driving

If driving, navigate to 2852 Cascade Road, Atlanta, GA 30311 [4, 5]. From I-285, take exit 2 for Cascade Road and head east [4]. Continue on Cascade Road for several miles [4]. The preserve entrance will be on your left [4]. Parking is free [4, 6, 10]. Be aware that Cascade Road can experience heavy traffic during peak hours [4].

Discover more about Cascade Springs Nature Preserve

Cascade Springs Nature Preserve, located in the Cascade Heights neighborhood of southwest Atlanta, offers a serene escape into nature with a touch of history [3, 5]. This 135-acre preserve features lush woodlands, winding streams, and a beautiful, cascading waterfall [3, 5, 14]. The area provides a peaceful retreat from the surrounding urban environment [3, 9]. The preserve's history is rich and diverse. During the Civil War, the Battle of Utoy Creek took place here in 1864, and remnants of Confederate earthworks are still visible along the trails [3, 4, 13, 14]. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the springs were believed to have healing properties, attracting visitors to a resort with a hotel, cottages, and a springhouse where the water was bottled and sold [3, 4, 5, 18]. The moss-covered stone springhouse remains as a charming relic of this era [3, 4]. The main trail, a 1.6-mile loop, guides visitors through the preserve's highlights [3, 4]. The trail begins near the parking area and meanders along a boardwalk that skirts the Civil War earthworks [2, 3]. It then leads to the historic springhouse before following Utoy Creek toward the waterfall [3, 4]. The trail continues along the creek, passing through a boulder-strewn forest adorned with ferns and ivy, before returning to the springhouse and the trailhead [2, 3, 4]. Today, Cascade Springs Nature Preserve is managed by the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance [14]. It serves as a valuable green space for recreation, education, and conservation [17, 21]. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the natural beauty and historical significance of this unique Atlanta treasure [3, 4].

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

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Illinois State Monument

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Pickett's Mill Battlefield State Historic Site

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Chattahoochee River

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Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

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Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home

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Borden-Wheeler Springs

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New Echota State Historic Site

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Oldest tree in Alabama

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Unmissable attractions to see

Six Flags Over Georgia

8.4 km

Experience thrilling rides and family fun at Six Flags Over Georgia, Atlanta's premier theme park, featuring world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and seasonal events for unforgettable memories.

Superman: Ultimate Flight

8.4 km

Experience the sensation of soaring like a superhero on Superman: Ultimate Flight at Six Flags Over Georgia, featuring a thrilling pretzel loop and face-down flying thrills.

Georgia Aquarium

9.3 km

Explore the wonders of the aquatic world at the Georgia Aquarium, home to thousands of animals, interactive exhibits, and a commitment to conservation, in the heart of downtown Atlanta.

SkyView Atlanta

9.4 km

Experience Atlanta from new heights! Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from the comfort of climate-controlled gondolas on SkyView Atlanta.

World of Coca-Cola

9.5 km

Discover the history, mystery, and global flavors of the world's most iconic beverage brand at the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta, a must-see attraction for all ages.

Apex Museum

9.9 km

Explore the rich tapestry of African American history and culture at Atlanta's APEX Museum, a vital landmark in the Sweet Auburn Historic District, offering a panoramic journey through time.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

10.8 km

Explore the life, legacy, and profound impact of Martin Luther King, Jr. at this essential Atlanta historical park, encompassing his birthplace, church, and final resting place.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Krog Street Tunnel

11.5 km

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Tiny Doors ATL

11.7 km

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Piedmont Park

12.6 km

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Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

12.7 km

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Paces Mill

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East Palisades Trailhead

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Vinings Jubilee

16.3 km

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Shops at Hampton Oaks

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Wild Oats & Billy Goats

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Georgia Gifts & More

28.7 km

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Uniquely Gifted

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The Nest

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A Southern Accent

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The Farmhouse

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The Woodbury Shoppe

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Whistlestop Shops

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The Gathered Warehouse

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Canoe

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St. Regis Bar

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Junction Bar

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Cascade Springs Nature Preserve with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.